Overbed table for use with a patient support

ABSTRACT

An overbed table configured to support a table section above a patient support surface, such as a hospital bed. The overbed table includes a frame having a base and a substantially vertical support column for supporting the table section. In one illustrative embodiment, a display device is supported by the overbed table. In a further illustrative embodiment, a camera is supported by the overbed table.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/849,580, filed May 4, 2001, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/202,283,filed May 5, 2000, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.60/229,136, filed Aug. 30, 2000, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/835,002, filed Apr. 13, 2001, whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.60/251,950, filed Dec. 7, 2000, and further claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/310,092, filed Aug. 3,2001, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by referenceherein.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to overbed tables of the typeextending above a patient support surface. More particularly, theinvention relates to an overbed table incorporating a display deviceand/or a camera configured to be used by a patient supported on ahospital bed or by a caregiver located adjacent to the bed.

[0003] The present invention provides an overbed table of the typecantilevered over a patient support, such as a hospital bed, andconfigured to support materials utilized by a patient.

[0004] According to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, anoverbed table includes a frame coupled to first and second tablesections, wherein the second table section is supported in verticallyspaced relation to the first table section. A support is positioned invertical spaced relation to the first table section and is configured tomove relative to the first table section within a substantiallyhorizontal plane. A display screen is coupled to the support and isconfigured to move between a substantially horizontal storage positionand a substantially vertical use position.

[0005] Illustratively according to the embodiment, at least one of thefirst table section and the second table section is configured to movein a substantially horizontal plane with respect to the other of thesecond table section and the first table section. Illustratively, thesecond table section is coupled to the first table section and the framesuch that movement of the second table section results in slidingmovement of the first table section.

[0006] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the supportcomprises an arm having first and second handles, wherein the displayscreen is supported intermediate the first and second handles.

[0007] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the support ispivotably connected to the first table section.

[0008] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen iscoupled to the support for pivoting movement about a substantiallyhorizontal first axis and for pivoting movement about a second axisextending substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

[0009] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the displayscreen is located intermediate the first and second table sections inthe storage position and extends above the first table section in theuse position.

[0010] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screencomprises one of a flat panel monitor and a reflective mirror.

[0011] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a camera is supportedproximate the display screen.

[0012] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the firsttable section is supported by the frame for movement between a generallyvertical position and a generally horizontal position.

[0013] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the secondtable section is releasably coupled to the first table section and theframe permits movement of the first table section between a generallyvertical position and a generally horizontal position independently ofthe second table section.

[0014] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the first tablesection is supported by the frame by an inner member provided on one ofthe frame and the first table section and an outer member provided onthe other of the frame and the first table section, the inner memberextending rotatably and slidably through the outer member to permitsliding movement and pivoting movement of the first table section withrespect to the frame.

[0015] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a rest issupported by one of the frame and the first table section, the restconfigured to support the first table section in the generallyhorizontal position.

[0016] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the frame includes atelescoping support column having an outer column portion and an innercolumn portion, the telescoping support column supporting the first andsecond table sections, and a base coupled to the telescoping supportcolumn.

[0017] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the secondtable section is coupled to the first table section by a first pivotalcoupling between the first and second table sections.

[0018] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the first pivotalcoupling includes a first bearing provided on one of the first andsecond table sections and a bearing race provided on the other of thefirst and second table sections, the first bearing engaging the bearingrace to permit pivoting of the second table section about a first axiswith respect to the first table section. The second table section isillustratively coupled to the frame by a second pivotal coupling betweenthe second table section and the frame.

[0019] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the second pivotalcoupling includes a trunnion provided on one of the frame and the secondtable section and a recess provided on the other of the frame and thesecond table section for receiving the trunnion to permit pivoting ofthe second table section about a second axis with respect to the firsttable section, the second axis being spaced from the first axis.

[0020] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen iscoupled to the first table section by a third pivotal coupling connectedto the first table section.

[0021] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a processoris provided in communication with the display screen.

[0022] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector issupported by the frame and is configured to operably connect with a bedframe for placing the display screen in communication with a processor.

[0023] According to a further embodiment of the invention, an overbedtable includes a frame having a vertically extending support column, atable section supported by the frame and configured to cantilever over apatient support surface including opposing head and foot ends, and acamera supported by the frame and directed toward the head end of thepatient support.

[0024] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a display screen issupported by the frame and includes a viewable surface directed towardthe head end of the patient support surface. The camera isillustratively supported by the display screen.

[0025] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a support isconfigured to move relative to the table section within a substantiallyhorizontal plane, the display screen being coupled to the support andconfigured to move between a substantially horizontal storage positionand a substantially vertical use position.

[0026] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor issupported by the frame and is in communication with the camera.

[0027] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a connectoris supported by the frame and is configured to operably connect with abed frame for placing the camera in communication with a remoteprocessor.

[0028] Illustratively according to the embodiment, at least one solarcell is supported by the frame and is operably connected to the camera,wherein the at least one solar cell is alignable with a light sourceconnected to the patient support surface.

[0029] According to a further illustrative embodiment of the invention,an overbed table includes a frame having a vertically extending supportcolumn, and a table section supported by the frame and configured tocantilever over a patient support surface including opposing head andfoot ends, and a display device supported by the frame and coupled to apower source. The display device includes first and second sides, and aviewable surface supported by the first side and directed toward thehead end of the patient support.

[0030] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a camera is supportedby the frame and is directed toward the head end of the patient supportsurface. The camera is provided in communication with the displaydevice, thereby defining an electronic mirror.

[0031] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the camera issupported by the display device.

[0032] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a support isconfigured to move relative to the table section within a substantiallyhorizontal plane, the display device being coupled to the support andconfigured to move between a substantially horizontal storage positionand a substantially vertical use position.

[0033] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a processoris supported by the frame and is in communication with the displaydevice.

[0034] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a connector issupported by the frame and is configured to operably connect to a bedframe for placing the display device in communication with a remoteprocessor.

[0035] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, at least onesolar cell is supported by the frame and is operably connected to thedisplay device, wherein the at least one solar cell is alignable with alight source connected to the patient support surface.

[0036] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a reflective mirroris supported by the second side of the display device.

[0037] According to another illustrative embodiment of the invention, anoverbed table includes a table section having upper and lower surfaces,the table section being configured to cantilever over a patient supportsurface. The overbed table further includes a support positioned invertical spaced relation to the table section, at least one of the tablesection and the support being configured to move relative to the otherof the support and the table section, and a monitor coupled to thesupport and in communication with a power source.

[0038] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the monitor iscoupled to the support for movement between a storage position below thelower surface of the first table section and a use position extendingabove the upper surface of the first table section.

[0039] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the support comprisesan arm pivotally supported below the lower surface of the table sectionfor pivoting movement about a substantially vertical axis.

[0040] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a couplerconnects the monitor and the arm, the coupler supporting the monitor fora first pivoting movement about a substantially horizontal axis and fora second pivoting movement about a second axis substantiallyperpendicular to the first axis.

[0041] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a keyboard iscoupled to the support.

[0042] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the supportcomprises a tray slidably supported below the table section and defininga storage compartment, the monitor being supported by the tray forpivoting movement about a substantially horizontal axis. The monitor isillustratively configured to fold into the storage compartment beneaththe table section.

[0043] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the monitor issupported by an arm configured to move vertically relative to the tablesection. The arm illustratively includes a vertical portion, ahorizontal portion pivotally connected to the vertical portion, and acoupler connecting the monitor to the horizontal portion. The couplersupports the monitor for a first pivoting movement about a first axisand for a second pivoting movement about a second axis disposedsubstantially perpendicular to the first axis.

[0044] According to yet another illustrative embodiment of theinvention, an overbed table includes a frame, a housing coupled to theframe and defining a storage compartment, and a table section coupled tothe housing. The table section is supported for movement between firstand second positions, the first position substantially covering thestorage compartment and the second position providing access to thestorage compartment. A display screen is coupled to a power source andis removably supported within the storage compartment.

[0045] Illustratively according to the embodiment, the display screen issupported by an arm including a vertical portion. The arm illustrativelyincludes a horizontal portion coupled to the vertical portion, and acoupler connects the display screen to the horizontal portion. Thecoupler supports the display screen for a first pivoting movement abouta first axis and for a second pivoting movement about a second axisdisposed substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

[0046] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a collapsible standis coupled to the display screen for supporting the display screen on anupper surface of the table section.

[0047] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, the displayscreen comprises a flat panel monitor.

[0048] Illustratively according to the embodiment, a processor is incommunication with the display screen.

[0049] Further illustratively according to the embodiment, a connectoris supported by the frame and is configured to operably connect with abed frame for placing the display screen in communication with a remoteprocessor.

[0050] Additional features of the invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detaileddescription when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanyingfigures in which:

[0052]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment overbedtable of the present invention, illustrating the second table sectionand the display support in closed or storage positions;

[0053]FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, illustrating thesecond table section and the display support in open or use positions;

[0054]FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the overbedtable of FIG. 1;

[0055]FIG. 4 is a top plan view, with a partial cut-away, of the overbedtable of FIG. 1;

[0056]FIG. 5 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 4, illustrating thesecond table section in an open or use position and the display supportin a closed or storage position;

[0057]FIG. 6 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 4, illustrating thesecond table section and the display support in open or use positions;

[0058]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 1illustrating the first table section in an upright or cleaning position;

[0059]FIG. 8 is a detailed perspective view of the overbed table, with apartial cut-away of the display coupler;

[0060]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the second tablesection and the display screen in open positions;

[0061]FIG. 10 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 9, illustrating thesecond table section in a closed position;

[0062]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of yet another illustrativeembodiment overbed table of the present invention, illustrating thefirst table section and the display screen in open positions;

[0063]FIG. 12 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 11, illustrating thefirst table section in a closed position;

[0064]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the display screenin a fully deployed or use mode of operation;

[0065]FIG. 14 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 13, illustrating thedisplay screen in a stored mode of operation;

[0066]FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 13,illustrating the display screen in a first partially deployed mode ofoperation;

[0067]FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 13,illustrating the display screen in a second partially deployed mode ofoperation;

[0068]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating the display screenincorporated within a phone and positioned in a fully deployed or usemode of operation;

[0069]FIG. 18 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 17, illustrating thedisplay screen in a stored mode of operation;

[0070]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating a display screenpivotally supported in a storage position within a storage compartmentand positioned in a use mode of operation extending above the firsttable section;

[0071]FIG. 20 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 19, illustrating thedisplay screen in a storage position below the first table section;

[0072]FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a further illustrativeembodiment overbed table of the present invention, illustrating adisplay screen configured to be removably supported within a storagecompartment below the table section in a storage position and supportedon the table section in a use position;

[0073]FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the display screen similar tothat of FIG. 21 with the display screen rotated 180° about a verticalaxis;

[0074]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a further illustrative embodimentoverbed table of the present invention, illustrating a docking connectorand a solar power device supported by the base of the frame of theoverbed table; and

[0075]FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interaction ofthe overbed table of FIG. 23 when fully docked to a hospital bed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-3, an overbed table 10 accordingto an illustrative embodiment of the present invention includes a base12 and a telescoping support column 14. The base 12 and the telescopingsupport column 14 combine to form a frame 15 which supports first andsecond table sections 16 and 18. In the following description, the firsttable section 16 may also be referred to as an upper table, and thesecond table section may also be referred to as a food tray. The firstand second table sections 16 and 18 are mounted in vertically spacedrelation proximate an upper end 17 of the support column 14.Illustratively, the first table section 16 is positioned in spacedrelation above the second table section 18, thereby defining a verticalspace or an open region 19 therebetween. The base 12 is generallyI-shaped in plan view and is illustratively provided at its fourextremities or corners with casters 20 which facilitate the convenientpositioning of the overbed table 10.

[0077] The telescoping support column 14 illustratively extends upwardlyfrom the base 12 at an angle of, for example, 0° to 10° generally tovertical to facilitate positioning of the overbed table 10 with respectto a conventional bed 21. More particularly, the support column 14 isconfigured to be positioned adjacent a conventional bed frame 22including bed rail 23 supporting a mattress 24 (FIGS. 23 and 24).

[0078] The support column 14 includes upper and lower telescopingportions 26 and 28, respectively. The upper portion 26 is configured tomove in a generally vertical direction relative to the lower portion 28.Additional details of the support column 14 are provided in co-pendingpatent application Ser. No. 09/835,002, which is assigned to theassignee of the present invention and is expressly incorporated byreference herein.

[0079] Referring further to FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, a sleeve 30 is providedproximate the upper end 17 of the support column 14 and extends in agenerally horizontal direction. The first table section 16 includes arod or tube 32 having substantially the same cross-section transverse toits longitudinal axis as an interior channel 34 of the sleeve 30 (FIG.3). The rod or tube 32 extends through the sleeve 30 and is slidably androtatably movable about its longitudinal axis 36 within the sleeve 30,as illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 7 to permit the first table section16 to slide linearly away from the second table section 18 and to rotatebetween a generally upright vertical position and a horizontal tableposition.

[0080] Adjacent its upper end 17, the support column 14, as illustratedbest in FIGS. 1 and 3, is also provided with a beam 38 which forms aportion of the frame 15. A proximal end 40 of the beam 38 is mounted tothe support column 14 and an opposite distal or remote end 42 extendsfrom the support column 14 in a direction generally parallel to the base12. As such, it may be appreciated that the first table section 16 issupported in a manner such that it cantilevers out from the supportcolumn 14. The remote end 42 of the beam 38 is provided with a rest 44which limits the downward pivoting of the first table section 16 as therod or tube 32 pivots within sleeve 30. An underside or lower surface 46of the first table section 16 may include a bearing surface 48 whichslides on the rest 44 to reduce wear on the lower surface 46 of thetable section 16. A conventional latch (not shown) may be provided toreleasably secure the table section 16 to the beam 38.

[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3 and 7, a storage tray or bin 49 isillustratively supported by the remote end 42 of the beam 38. Thestorage bin 49 includes a pair of side walls 50 and 51 and a pair of endwalls 52 and 53 connected to a bottom wall 54. The end walls 52 and 53have notches 55 formed therein to facilitate access to the storage bin49 when the first table section 16 is positioned thereabove. A mountingtab 56 is connected to the side wall 51 and is secured to the remote end42 of the beam 38 through a conventional fastener, such as a bolt 57threadably received by a nut 58.

[0082] An upper surface 60 of the first table section 16 may include aplurality of recesses 61 adapted to receive and secure conventionalobjects that may be used by a person supported on the bed 21 or by acaregiver located adjacent to the bed 21, such as cups and plates (notshown). Additionally a bumper 62 may be secured around a peripheral edgeof the first table section 16 in order to protect surfaces which maycome in contact with the overbed table 10. The bumper 62 is preferablyformed from a resilient material, such as an elastomer or thermoplastic.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 3, the second table section 18 includes a lowersurface 63 an upper bearing 64 which is generally circular in plan viewand provides a generally flat bearing surface. Intermediate the proximalend 40, adjacent the support column 14, and the distal end 42, the beam38 is provided with a complementary lower bearing surface 66 which isalso generally flat and circular. One of the second table section 18 andthe beam 38 (beam 38 in the illustrated embodiment) is provided with apivot post 68, and the other of the second table section 18 and the beam38 (second table section 18 in the illustrated embodiment) is providedwith a recess 70 for receiving the pivot post 68. The second tablesection 18 is releasably mounted and moves pivotally about pivot axis 72on the pivot post 68.

[0084] On its upwardly facing surface 74 at its distal end 76 remotefrom the support column 14, the second table section 18 is provided witha roller bearing 78. The lower surface 46 of the first table section 16includes a bearing track 80 for receiving the roller bearing 78 when thefirst table section 16 is in its lowered position resting on the rest44. With this linkage, pivotal movement of the second table section 18within a horizontal plane results in sliding movement of the first tablesection 16 along sleeve 30 in a second, parallel horizontal plane. Asillustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, pivotal movement of the proximal end 82 ofthe second table section 18 away from the support column 14 of the frame15 in the direction of arrow 84 results in sliding movement of the firsttable section 16 in a generally opposite direction as represented byarrow 86 (FIG. 5). Pivotal movement of end 82 of second table section 18toward outer support column 14 of frame 15 in the direction of arrow 88results in sliding movement of the first table section 16 in a directiongenerally toward the second table section 18 as represented by arrow 90.

[0085] Similarly, sliding movement of the first table section 16 awayfrom the second table section 18 in the direction of arrow 86 results inpivotal movement of the end 82 of the second table section 18 generallyaway from the support column 14 in the direction of arrow 84. Slidingmovement of first table section 16 toward the support column 14 in thedirection of arrow 90 results in pivotal movement of the end 72 of thesecond table section 18 toward the support column 14 and the first tablesection 16 in the direction of arrow 88.

[0086] Generally, it will be understood that horizontal movement in oneplane of one table section 16, 18 results in similar horizontal movementin an adjacent, substantially parallel plane of the other table section16, 18. In a storage position, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the secondtable section 18 is positioned below the first table section 16. In theuse position, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second table section18 is moved at least partially out from under the first table section16.

[0087] The second table section 18 illustratively includes a pair ofhandles 92 and 94 positioned proximate opposing longitudinal side edges96 and 97 thereof to facilitate pivoting movement of the second tablesection 18 about the pivot post 68. The handles 92 and 94 are configuredto extend outwardly from beneath opposing side edges 98 and 99 of thefirst table section 16. Each handle 92 and 94 may include a grippingportion 100 and 102 to be utilized by a patient in deploying the secondtable section 18 from the storage position (FIG. 4) to the use position(FIG. 5). The gripping portions 100 and 102 are illustratively formedfrom a high friction resilient material such as an elastomer.

[0088] With reference to FIGS. 2-4 and 6-8, a support arm 104 issupported within the open region 19 in vertically spaced relation toboth the first and second table sections 16 and 18. More particularly,the arm 104 is positioned intermediate, or sandwiched between, the firstand second table sections 16 and 18. The arm 104 is supported forpivoting movement within a substantially horizontal plane about a pivotaxis 106 (FIG. 3). The lower surface 46 of the first table section 16illustratively includes a bearing 108 which is generally circular inplan view and provides a generally flat bearing surface for the arm 104.A pivot post 110 is received within a recess 112 formed within thebearing 108. The pivot post 110 may comprise a conventional fastenerpassing through an opening 114 formed within the arm 104 and threadablyreceived within the recess 112. The arm 104 moves pivotally about thepivot post 110, and hence the pivot axis 106, between a storage position(FIGS. 4 and 5) and a use position (FIG. 6).

[0089] The arm 104 illustratively includes a substantially U-shapedportion 116 and a connecting portion 118. The U-shaped portion 116supports a pair of handles 120 and 122 to facilitate pivoting movementof the arm 104 by a patient. The handles 120 and 122 are configured toextend outwardly from beneath the opposing side edges 98 and 99 of thefirst table section 16. A display screen or device 124 is supported bythe U-shaped portion 116 of the arm 104 by a coupler 126.

[0090] With reference to FIG. 8, the coupler 126 includes a first bodyportion 128 supported for pivoting movement about a substantiallyhorizontal first pivot axis 130. A first pin 132 couples the first bodyportion 128 to the U-shaped portion 116 of the arm 104. A second bodyportion 134 is supported by the first body portion 128 for pivotingmovement about a second pivot axis 136 disposed substantiallyperpendicular to the first pivot axis 130. A second pin 138 couples thesecond body portion 134 to the first body portion 128. In turn, thedisplay device 124 is fixed to the second body portion 134.

[0091] The display device 124 includes first and second sides 142 and144, with the first side 142 supporting a viewable surface 146 andconfigured to face toward a head end 148 of the bed 21 (FIG. 23). Thedisplay device 124 illustratively comprises a conventional computermonitor wherein the viewable surface 146 comprises an electronic display150 (FIG. 8). A conventional mirror 152 may be supported by the secondside 144 of the display device 124 (FIG. 4). As may be appreciated, theuser may alternatively use the electronic display 150 and the mirror 152by simply rotating the display device 124 about the second pivot axis136 by moving the second body portion 134 around the second pin 138. Inan illustrated embodiment, the display device 124 comprises a flat panelmonitor and the electronic display 150 comprises a high resolutionliquid crystal display. The viewable surface 146 of the display device124 may be defined by other conventional screens including, but notlimited to, a television screen, or a projection screen, or aconventional mirror. If the display 150 comprises a projection screen,then images may be projected from a remote location onto the viewablesurface 146. More particularly, a conventional projector (not shown) maybe supported by a structure (such as a ceiling) remote from the overbedtable 10 and is configured to project information onto the viewablesurface 146.

[0092] A processor 154 is supported by the frame 15 and most preferablyis fixed proximate the upper end 17 of the support column 14. Theprocessor 154 is in communication with the display device 124 throughconventional transmission means, which may include wires or wirelesstransmitter and receiver (not shown). A power source in the form of abattery 156 may likewise be secured proximate an upper end 17 of thesupport column 14 and is in communication with the display device 124.It should be appreciated that both the processor 154 and the battery 156may be located remote from the overbed table 10 wherein communicationmeans are provided in order for the display device 124 to interact withthe processor 154 and the battery 156, such as detailed below.

[0093] A camera 160, such as a video or digital still image camera, isillustratively supported by the display device 124. The camera 160 is incommunication with the processor 154 and may have power supplied by thebattery 156. In one illustrative embodiment, the camera 160 providesimages to the processor 154 which are then transmitted to the electronicdisplay 150. As such, the electronic display 150, the processor 154, andthe camera 160 define an electronic mirror. In other words, the patientfacing the camera 160 will see his or her image electronically generatedin the electronic display 150.

[0094] A further illustrative embodiment of an overbed table 210 isshown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The overbed table 210 illustratively includes afirst table section 212 positioned in vertical spaced relation above asecond table section 214. The first table section 212 is supported forsliding movement and the second table section 214 is supported forpivoting movement relative to the first table section 212 in the mannerdescribed above with respect to the first table section 16 and thesecond table section 18 of the illustrative embodiment overbed table 10.

[0095] A recess 216 extends downwardly from an upper surface 218 of thesecond table section 214. The display device 124 is supported by thesecond table section 214 illustratively through a hinge 220 for pivotingmovement about a substantially horizontal pivot axis 222. The displaydevice 124 is adapted to pivot about the pivot axis 222 defined by thehinge 220 between a substantially upright use position (FIG. 9) and asubstantially horizontal storage position (FIG. 10). In the storageposition, the display device 124 is received within the recess 216 suchthat the rear or second side 144 of the display device 124 issubstantially flush with the upper surface 218 of the second tablesection 214. In the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, no separate supportarm is required for the display device 124.

[0096] Turning now to FIGS. 11 and 12, a further embodiment overbedtable 310 including a frame 15 supporting a first table section 312. Astorage tray 314 is supported in vertical spaced relation below thefirst table section 312 and is configured to move within a substantiallyhorizontal plane in a direction generally perpendicular to alongitudinal axis 315 of the first table section 312. The display device124 is coupled to first and second spaced apart arms 316 and 318 whichprovide for pivoting movement of the display device 124 from an open oruse position where the display device 124 is extending upwardly out ofthe storage tray 314 (FIG. 11) to a closed or storage position where thedisplay device 124 is received within the storage tray 314 below thehorizontal plane defined by the first table section 312 (FIG. 12). Asillustrated in FIG. 11, first ends 320 and 322 of the arms 316 and 318are pivotally connected to longitudinally extending side walls 324 and326 of the storage tray 314, while opposing second ends 328 and 330 ofthe arms 316 and 318 are pivotally connected to an upper portion of thedisplay device 124. The first ends 320 and 322 of the arms 316 and 318may be slidably received with channels 332 extending within the sidewalls 324 and 326 to facilitate folding of the display device 124 intothe storage tray 314.

[0097] In operation, the display device 124 may be moved between an openposition (FIG. 11) and a closed position (FIG. 12) by folding the arms320 and 322 downwardly into the storage tray 314 such that the displaydevice 124 is nested intermediate the side walls 324 and 326. Thestorage tray 314 may then be slidably moved in a direction toward thefirst table section 312 and into the storage position where the storagetray 314 is located in vertically spaced relation immediately below thefirst table section 312.

[0098] Referring now to FIGS. 13-16, a further embodiment of the overbedtable 410 of the present invention is illustrated as including a frame15 supporting a storage unit 412. The storage unit 412 may include aplurality of shelves 414 for use by the patient or a caregiver. Itshould be appreciated that the shelves 414 may be enclosed by doors (notshown), or replaced with sliding drawers or removable bins (not shown).

[0099] A first or upper table section 416 is slidably supported by thestorage unit 412 for movement substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis 417 of the first table section 416 (FIG. 14). Moreover, the firsttable section 416 may include a first or inner guide member 418supported by the first table section 416, and a second or outer guidemember 420 supported by the storage unit 412. As such, the table section416 may be moved back and forth within a substantially horizontal planein the direction of double headed arrow 422 to provide access to astorage recess 424 defined by the storage unit 412. The display device124 is supported within the storage recess 424 when in a storageposition (FIG. 14). The display device 124 is supported by an arm 426configured to move vertically relative to the table section 416. The arm426 includes a vertical portion 428 supported by the storage unit 412and pivotable about a substantially vertical axis 430. A horizontalportion 432 is pivotally connected to the vertical portion 428 and acoupler 434 connects the display device 124 to the horizontal portion432. The coupler 434 supports the display device 124 for a firstpivoting movement about a first axis 436 and for second pivotingmovement about a second axis 438 which is disposed substantiallyperpendicular to the first axis 436 (FIG. 16).

[0100] Referring further to FIG. 16, the coupler 434 includes a firstmember 440 rotatable about the first axis 436 and a second member 442rotatable about the second axis 438. The arm 426 in combination with thecoupler 434 provides for movement of the display device 124 into any oneof a plurality of different positions as illustrated in FIGS. 13-16.

[0101] As illustrated in the alternative illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 17 and 18, a communication device, such as a telephone 444 may besupported by the arm 426′ adjacent the display device 124. Moreover, thedisplay device 124 and the telephone 444 may be part of an overallcomputer system 446 coupled to a computer support 448. FIG. 17illustrates the overbed table 410′ in a use position so that thecomputer system 446 is accessible to a patient. As such, the patient hasaccess to email, the internet, a care plan, or other items such ascomputer games which are readily accessible through a computer network.The patient may also conduct business or transmit emails to caregiversasking questions. FIG. 18 illustrates the overbed table 410′ in astorage position where the computer system 446 is received within thestorage recess 424 below the horizontal plane of the table section 416.

[0102] Turning now to FIGS. 19 and 20, a further embodiment of overbedtable 510 is illustrated as including a storage unit 412 including astorage cavity or recess 424 similar to that disclosed above withrespect to the overbed table 410. The display device 124 in the overbedtable 510 is pivotally connected to the storage unit 412 through a hinge512. As such, the display device 124 may be pivoted about a horizontalaxis 514 between a use position where the display device 124 ispositioned vertically above the table section 416 (FIG. 19) and astorage position wherein the display device 124 is received within thestorage cavity 424 and below the horizontal plane of the table section416 (FIG. 20).

[0103] Turning now to FIGS. 21 and 22, a further embodiment of overbedtable 610 is illustrated as again including a storage unit 412 includinga storage cavity 424 similar to that detailed above with respect to theoverbed table 410. The display device 124 is removably supported withinthe storage cavity 424. Moreover, the display device 124 may bephysically removed from the storage cavity 424 and supported upon anupper surface 611 of the first table section 416 when in a use position(FIGS. 21 and 22). The display device includes a collapsible stand 612including a base 614 and at least one upright 618 connected to a rearsurface 616 of the display device 124. The base 614 and the upright 618are operably connected through a pair of pivots or hinges 620 and 622 sothat the base 614 may be folded into proximity with the uprights 616 and618 for storage within the storage cavity 424. A conventional wire orcable 624 operably connects the display device 124 to the processor 154.

[0104] Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated inFIGS. 23 and 24. The base 12 of the overbed table 710 includes a firstdocking connector 712 which mates with a second docking connector 714coupled to the frame 22 of the bed 21 below the mattress 24. The firstdocking connector 712 coupled with second docking connector 714 may beutilized to supply electrical power to the display device 124 and totransmit information or signals thereto in a conventional manner. In afurther embodiment, a retractable cord 718 is utilized to supply powerto the display device 124. More particularly, the retractable cord 718is receivable within a housing 720 supported by the bed frame 22. In afurther embodiment, the overbed table 710 includes a plurality ofupwardly-facing solar cells 722 supported on the base 12. The solarcells 722 are utilized to power components such as the display device124 supported on the overbed table 710. The battery 156 may be chargedthrough ambient light by the solar cells 720 using a conventionaltrickle charge. For nighttime use, a night light 724 may be provided incommunication with the solar cells 722. Moreover, the night light 724 issupported by the bed frame 22 and directs light downwardly toward thesolar cells 722. As such, at nighttime, the night light 724 provides asource of energy to the solar cells 722 to maintain the power for theelectrical components on the overbed table 710.

[0105] Additional details regarding interaction between the overbedtable 10, 710 and an external computer system are provided in pendingU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/849,580, filed May 4, 2001, U.S.Patent Application entitled “PATIENT POINT-OF-CARE COMPUTERSYSTEM”(Attorney Docket 8266-0709), filed concurrently herewith, andU.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/310,092, filed Aug. 3, 2001,all of which are assigned to the assignee of the present invention andare expressly incorporated by reference herein.

[0106] Although the invention has been described in detail withreference to certain illustrated embodiments, variations andmodifications exist within the scope and spirit of the invention asdescribed and as defined in the following claims.

1. An overbed table comprising: a frame; a first table section coupledto said frame; a second table section coupled to said frame in verticalspaced relation to said first table section; a support positioned invertical spaced relation to said first table section, said supportconfigured to move relative to said first table section within asubstantially horizontal plane; and a display screen coupled to saidsupport and configured to move between a substantially horizontalstorage position and a substantially vertical use position.
 2. Theoverbed table of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first tablesection and said second table section is configured to move in asubstantially horizontal plane with respect to the other of said secondtable section and said first table section.
 3. The overbed table ofclaim 2, wherein said second table section is coupled to said firsttable section such that movement of said second table section results insliding movement of said first table section.
 4. The overbed table ofclaim 1, wherein said support comprises an arm including at least onehandle.
 5. The overbed table of claim 4, wherein said arm includes firstand second handles, and said display screen is supported intermediatesaid first and second handles.
 6. The overbed table of claim 1, whereinsaid support is pivotably connected to said first table section.
 7. Theoverbed table of claim 1, wherein said display screen is coupled to saidsupport for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontal firstaxis.
 8. The overbed table of claim 7, wherein said display screen iscoupled to said support for pivoting movement about a second axisextending substantially perpendicular to said first axis.
 9. The overbedtable of claim 1, wherein said display screen is located intermediatesaid first and second table sections in said storage position andextends above said first table section in said use position.
 10. Theoverbed table of claim 1, wherein said display screen comprises a flatpanel monitor.
 11. The overbed table of claim 1, wherein said displayscreen comprises a reflective mirror.
 12. The overbed table of claim 1,further comprising a camera supported proximate said display screen. 13.The overbed table of claim 1, wherein said first table section issupported by said frame for movement between a generally verticalposition and a generally horizontal position.
 14. The overbed table ofclaim 13, wherein said second table section is releasably coupled tosaid first table section and said frame permits movement of said firsttable section between a generally vertical position and a generallyhorizontal position independently of said second table section.
 15. Theoverbed table of claim 14, wherein said first table section is supportedby said frame by an inner member provided on one of said frame and saidfirst table section and an outer member provided on the other of saidframe and said first table section, said inner member extendingrotatably and slidably through said outer member to permit slidingmovement and pivoting movement of said first table section with respectto said frame.
 16. The overbed table of claim 13, further comprising arest supported by one of said frame and said first table section, saidrest configured to support said first table section in said generallyhorizontal position.
 17. The overbed table of claim 1, wherein saidframe includes a telescoping support column has an outer column portionand an inner column portion, the telescoping support column supportingsaid first and second table sections, and a base coupled to thetelescoping support column.
 18. The overbed table of claim 1, whereinsaid second table section is coupled to said first table section by afirst pivotal coupling between said first and second table sections. 19.The overbed table of claim 18, wherein said first pivotal couplingincludes a first bearing provided on one of said first and second tablesections and a bearing race provided on said other of said first andsecond table sections, said first bearing engaging said bearing race topermit pivoting of said second table section about a first axis withrespect to said first table section.
 20. The overbed table of claim 19,wherein said second table section is coupled to said frame by a secondpivotal coupling between said second table section and said frame. 21.The overbed table of claim 20, wherein said second pivotal couplingincludes a trunnion provided on one of said frame and said second tablesection and a recess provided on the other of said frame and said secondtable section for receiving said trunnion to permit pivoting of saidsecond table section about a second axis with respect to said firsttable section, said second axis being spaced from said first axis. 22.The overbed table of claim 21, wherein said display screen is coupled tosaid first table section by a third pivotal coupling connected to saidfirst table section.
 23. The overbed table of claim 1, furthercomprising a processor in communication with said display screen. 24.The overbed table of claim 1, further comprising a connector supportedby said frame and configured to operably connect with a bed frame forplacing the display screen in communication with a processor.
 25. Anoverbed table comprising: a frame including a vertically extendingsupport column; a table section supported by said frame and configuredto cantilever over a patient support surface including opposing head andfoot ends; and a camera supported by said frame and directed toward thehead end of the patient support surface.
 26. The overbed table of claim25, further comprising a display screen supported by said frame, saiddisplay screen including a viewable surface directed toward the head endof the patient support surface.
 27. The overbed table of claim 26,wherein said camera is supported by said display screen.
 28. The overbedtable of claim 26, further comprising a support configured to moverelative to said table section within a substantially horizontal plane,said display screen being coupled to said support and configured to movebetween a substantially horizontal storage position and a substantiallyvertical use position.
 29. The overbed table of claim 25, furthercomprising a processor supported by said frame and in communication withsaid camera.
 30. The overbed table of claim 25, further comprising aconnector supported by said frame and configured to operably connectwith a bed frame for placing the camera in communication with a remoteprocessor.
 31. The overbed table of claim 25, further comprising atleast one solar cell supported by said frame and operably connected tosaid camera.
 32. The overbed table of claim 31, wherein said at leastone solar cell is alignable with a light source connected to the patientsupport surface.
 33. An overbed table comprising: a frame including avertically extending support column; a table section supported by saidframe and configured to cantilever over a patient support surfaceincluding opposing head and foot ends; and a display device supported bysaid frame and coupled to a power source, said display device includingfirst and second sides, and a viewable surface supported by said firstside and directed toward the head end of the patient support surface.34. The overbed table of claim 33, further comprising a camera supportedby said frame and directed toward the head end of the patient support.35. The overbed table of claim 34, wherein said camera is incommunication with said display device to define an electronic mirror.36. The overbed table of claim 34, wherein said camera is supported bysaid display device.
 37. The overbed table of claim 33, furthercomprising a support configured to move relative to said table sectionwithin a substantially horizontal plane, said display device beingcoupled to said support and configured to move between a substantiallyhorizontal storage position and a substantially vertical use position.38. The overbed table of claim 33, further comprising a processorsupported by said frame and in communication with said display device.39. The overbed table of claim 33, further comprising a connectorsupported by said frame and configured to operably connect with a bedframe for placing the display device in communication with a remoteprocessor.
 40. The overbed table of claim 33, further comprising atleast one solar cell supported by said frame and operably connected tosaid display device.
 41. The overbed table of claim 40, wherein said atleast one solar cell is alignable with a light source connected to thepatient support surface.
 42. The overbed table of claim 33, furthercomprising a reflective mirror supported by said second side of saiddisplay device.
 43. An overbed table comprising: a table sectionincluding upper and lower surfaces, said table section being configuredto cantilever over a patient support surface; a support positioned invertical spaced relation to said table section, at least one of saidtable section and said support being configured to move relative to theother of said support and said table section; and a monitor coupled tosaid support and in communication with a power source.
 44. The overbedtable of claim 43, wherein said monitor is coupled to said support formovement between a storage position below said lower surface of saidfirst table section and a use position extending above said uppersurface of said first table section.
 45. The overbed table of claim 42,wherein said support comprises an arm pivotally supported below saidlower surface of said table section for pivoting movement about asubstantially vertical axis.
 46. The overbed table of claim 45, furthercomprising a coupler connecting said monitor and said arm, said couplersupporting said monitor for a first pivoting movement about asubstantially horizontal axis and for a second pivoting movement about asecond axis substantially perpendicular to said first axis.
 47. Theoverbed table of claim 43, further comprising a keyboard coupled to saidsupport.
 48. The overbed table of claim 43, wherein said supportcomprises a tray slidably supported below said table section anddefining a storage compartment, said monitor supported by said tray forpivoting movement about a substantially horizontal axis.
 49. The overbedtable of claim 48, wherein said monitor is configured to fold into saidstorage compartment beneath said table section.
 50. The overbed table ofclaim 43, wherein said monitor is supported by an arm configured to movevertically relative to said table section.
 51. The overbed table ofclaim 50, wherein said arm includes a vertical portion, a horizontalportion pivotably connected to said vertical portion, and a couplerconnecting said monitor to said horizontal portion, said couplersupporting said monitor for a first pivoting movement about a first axisand for a second pivoting movement about a second axis disposedsubstantially perpendicular to said first axis.
 52. An overbed tablecomprising: a frame; a housing coupled to said frame and defining astorage compartment; a table section coupled to said housing, said tablesection supported for movement between first and second positions, saidfirst position substantially covering said storage compartment and saidsecond position providing access to said storage compartment; and adisplay screen coupled to a power source and removably supported withinsaid storage compartment.
 53. The overbed table of claim 52, whereinsaid display screen is supported by an arm including a vertical portion.54. The overbed table of claim 53, wherein said arm includes ahorizontal portion coupled to said vertical portion, and a couplerconnects said display screen to said horizontal portion, said couplersupporting said display screen for a first pivoting movement about afirst axis and for a second pivoting movement about a second axisdisposed substantially perpendicular to said first axis.
 55. The overbedtable of claim 52, further comprising a collapsible stand coupled tosaid display screen for supporting said display screen on said tablesection.
 56. The overbed table of claim 52, wherein said display screencomprises a flat panel monitor.
 57. The overbed table of claim 52,further comprising a processor in communication with said displayscreen.
 58. The overbed table of claim 52, further comprising aconnector supported by said frame and configured to operably connectwith a bed frame for placing the display screen in communication with aremote processor.